Main Idea vs Theme
The plot/story line is the . . .
Main Idea
When you infer, you use what the author says along with
Your own background knowledge
I am the protagonist and narrator of The Outsiders.
Ponyboy
Why are the Curtis brothers on their own?
Their parents died in a car crash.
I have a million questions about what happened!
This is an example of:
hyperbole
The Outsiders is about a group of young people who struggle with social class and a story about family and friends stick together. This is an example of
Paul hit the ball with a strong backswing. Kim scurried up the court and returned it at the net. Both were sweating as the sun poured down. In the end Paul's serves won him the match.
Paul and Kim are playing. . .
Tennis
My dad called me by the nickname, Pepsi Cola.
Sodapop
Who is the only person Dally (Dallas) has a soft spot for?
Johnny
Life is an hour glass glued to the table.
This is a :
metaphor
The underlying lesson being taught in a written work is
Theme
Tiffany strapped on her boots and zipped up her coat. After pull down her hat and adjusting her goggles, she pushed off . . .
Tiffany is . . .
Skiing
My real name is Keith.
Two-Bit
60s -- Tulsa, OK
I am feeling under the weather.
This is a/an:
idiom
Don't judge a book by it's cover. This is an example of a
Theme
Kelsea had a great time at the dance with her date. Later that night she answered his texts with winky faces and heart emojis. How can you infer she feels about the boy she went to the dance with?
Likes/Loves/Crushing on. . .
I am a soc, but I became a spy for the greasers.
Cherry
What was Sodapop's most prized possessions (even though he didn't really "own" it?
Micky Mouse -- Race horse
He was as nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs.
This is a/an:
simile
True or False
The author usually directly states the theme of a story.
Bob hasn't spoken to his friends for days. He's not really eating much and is even losing some weight. His mom is worried.
What is one logical inference you could make about what's going on with Bob?
Sick?
Answers vary
My trouble with the law started when I was only ten years old.
Dally or Dallas
Why is Sodapop so sad when Pony gets back from hiding out?
His girlfriend Sandy has been forced to move away.
My coat smacked me in the face as the wind blew furiously around me.
Personification
True or False
Both the theme and main idea can be directly stated or inferred.
True
Give a logical inference as to what Kylee might be doing.
Giving a speech/class presentation.
The only thing that keeps me from being a soc is my family and friends.
Darry/Darryl
Nothing/ no one stays innocent/ free from trouble.
Authors use figurative language to . . .
Paint mental pictures/make their writing more interesting for their readers.